What is the biggest cause of disputes between homeowners and contractors? A non-existent or poorly written contract! Some states only require a written contract for projects over a specific dollar amount, but in reality, homeowners should require a written agreement for all jobs if they want to fully protect themselves from sub-standard work. Here’s a short course on basic elements included in a well-drafted construction contract:

1. Name and address of both parties, and signatures: State the obvious. If the parties aren’t listed, the contract is not legally binding. Both the contractor and homeowner should have fully signed duplicate copies.

2. List location: Another silly detail, but contracts often omit site location where work is to be performed which may be a different address, especially if it’s a vacation condo, investment property, or a newly purchased home not yet occupied. List the focus area of the project as well. For example, a house with more than one bath -- list which bathroom (upstairs, downstairs, full/half, etc.) is being remodeled.

3. Scope of services: Commonly overlooked and under-written, outlining scope of services is essential. This is what you are buying! The contract should state, in detail, the work to be performed. Terms like “using industry-approved standards” (for materials/fasteners, etc.) and building “to code” will be emphasized in this section. Ask your contractor to be specific. Arrange meetings to discuss revisions and changes until both parties agree with content. "Include description of materials, quality and grade, items to be selected by customer, other specifications and that Contractor shall obtain all required permits and governmental inspections," said Attorney Carl D. Goodman, an attorney in Lynn, MA who specializes in real estate related litigation.

4. Total cost of project and terms of payment: This should be clearly and simply stated. Costs over and above the original scope of services should be discussed and for larger projects, consider placing a cap on project expenses to eliminate risk of dealing with contractors who like to nickel-and-dime you up to the high-end cost of doing business.

Payments should be arranged at specific time periods and/or may be offered at certain completion points in a project. Cost for materials should be discussed well in-advance. If you are entering into a “package plan” make sure you understand limitations for budgeted items like flooring, lighting, cabinets, etc. The final payment needs to be large enough for the remodeling contractor to have an inducement to complete the job.

5. Guarantee of workmanship: Without a written guarantee, you’re at risk! "The contract should state that the Contractor guarantees all materials and workmanship for a specified period of time," said Attorney Goodman. Stay away from a contractor unwilling to stand behind the work! Tip: Take pictures or video of your project -- before, during and after construction -- so if something goes wrong, you’ll have evidence of substandard workmanship or damages.

6. Statement of insurance coverage:All contractors should provide an up-to-date insurance policy covering both casualty and workers compensation insurance. A copy of the insurance binder should be included as part of the contractual agreement including insurance binders for any subcontractors the contractor is expected to hire.

7. Special considerations or waiver of liability: You and your contractor may choose to draft up a clause outlining special considerations for anything outside the ordinary pertaining to your project. There may be unusual work conditions or special precautions. This section of the contract will include project details outside the scope of services. If hazardous or unusual conditions exist, both parties should discuss potential risks, decide how risk will be minimized and outline the terms by which liability will be addressed or waived. For example, contracting for the application of new siding may put you at increased risk for an inadvertently broken window or damage to foundation plantings caused by shifting scaffolding and ladders. Although minor damage is may be forgiven, major damage from carelessness should be discussed to minimize loss.

8. Penalty clause, otherwise known as “liquidated damages”: Horror stories about contractors who never finish the project or take an exceptionally long time to reach end point can be heard everywhere. Some contracts may include penalty clauses, but Michael Fortney of Fortney & Klingshirn, an attorney specializing in construction law in Ohio, states penalty clauses are difficult to enforce. Alternatively, “Courts consider liquidated damages to be appropriate for remedying delays in the construction industry.”

For small projects, contractors may shy away from entering into contracts with this type of clause, but for larger projects, it’s wise to include it. Attorney Fortney recommends, “At minimum, prime contracts should include a date of commencement of the work, a project duration (time the prime contractor agrees to reach substantial completion of scope of work), and a definition of substantial completion.” In addition, “project duration is measured in calendar days or working days…” and a definition of reasonable delays may also be included, relating to weather, delivery of materials and other unforeseen factors.